Feminine Hygiene Article

ABSTRACT

Feminine hygiene articles are disclosed herein. The feminine hygiene articles described herein can provide easily discernable placement and orientation guides which reduce the likelihood of misapplication by the user, facilitated attachment guides which can reduce the likelihood of misapplication of the feminine pad and can also reduce the likelihood of improper attachment of the feminine pad to a panty. The feminine hygiene articles disclosed include uniquely shaped wings which can provide cues on proper attachment of the article to the panty, and may help in providing sustained coverage of the feminine hygiene article to the panty which reduces the likelihood that the pad will become detached during use.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present application pertains to absorbent articles and moreparticularly to feminine hygiene articles.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Feminine pads have been used widely for several decades. These pads aregenerally utilized during menstruation to capture menses and wetness. Ingeneral, the user of feminine pads wants to feel clean and dry. Manyadvancements in feminine pad technology have attempted to improve one orboth of these aspects. For example, wings were introduced to thefeminine pads to reduce the likelihood of leakage and to help secure thepad to the panty of the wearer. Additionally, absorbent core materialshave been introduced which can provide enhanced absorbent capacity in arelatively thin pad.

However, providing the user of feminine pads the desired experience is abit more complex and requires more than the above advancements. The userof the feminine pad should be provided with an easy to discernapplication guide which ensures the proper placement/orientation of thefeminine pad within the panty. If improper placement and/or orientationis utilized, the above advancements of wings and absorbent corematerials will likely not provide the intended benefit. Additionally,the pad must be securely fastened to the panty. Without the securefastening of the feminine pad to the panty, the feminine pad may becomedetached during use. And similar to improper placement and/ororientation, detachment can negate much of the functionality of theadvancements described above.

Secure attachment of the feminine pad to the panty can generally includetwo aspects. First, proper attachment of the pad to the panty, andsecond, sustained attachment/coverage of the feminine pad to the panty.Unfortunately, without proper attachment, sustained attachment andcoverage may be difficult to achieve. And, in some instances, properattachment does not necessarily guarantee sustained attachment/coverage.

Based on the foregoing, it would be beneficial to provide a pad whichprovided easily discernable placement/orientation guides, facilitatedattachment guides, and/or sustained attachment to the panty.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The feminine hygiene article of the present invention can provide theuser with an intuitive application guide which facilitates theidentification of proper orientation of the pad. In some forms, thefeminine hygiene article of the present invention can provide the userwith an intuitive application guide which facilitates proper applicationof the pad to a panty. And, in some forms, the feminine hygiene articleof the present invention can provide sustained coverage of the femininehygiene article to the panty.

In some forms, a feminine hygiene article has a chassis comprising atopsheet, a backsheet, and an absorbent core disposed between thetopsheet and the backsheet. The feminine hygiene article furthercomprises a longitudinal centerline and a lateral centerlineperpendicular to the longitudinal centerline; a first end, an opposingsecond end, and an intermediate region connecting the first end and thesecond end, the first end having a width Wf and the second end having awidth Ws.

The feminine hygiene article further comprises a first wing extendinglaterally outboard of the chassis having a first leading edge extendingoutboard of the chassis, a first trailing edge extending outboard of thechassis and one or more edges connecting the first leading edge and thefirst trailing edge, wherein the first wing has a first length and afirst bisecting line bisecting the first length, the first bisectingline forming, at least a portion, of a boundary between a first distalzone and a first proximal zone, wherein the first wing is asymmetricabout the first bisecting line, wherein the first wing further comprisesa first surface (501) and an opposing second surface, a first adhesivearea and a second adhesive area disposed on the second surface, whereinthe first adhesive area is disposed asymmetrically with respect to thefirst bisecting line.

The feminine hygiene article further comprises a second wing extendinglaterally outboard of the chassis having a second leading edge extendingoutboard of the chassis, a second trailing edge extending outboard ofthe chassis and one or more edges connecting the second leading edge andthe second trailing edge, wherein the second wing has a second lengthand a second bisecting line bisecting the second length, wherein thesecond wing is asymmetric about the second bisecting line, wherein thesecond wing further comprises a first surface and an opposing secondsurface, a third adhesive area and a fourth adhesive area disposed onthe second surface, wherein the third adhesive area is disposedasymmetrically with respect to the second bisecting line. A first visualsignal is disposed on the first wing, wherein the first visual signalcomprises a first visual signal area, and wherein the first visualsignal area is disposed asymmetrically with respect to the firstbisecting line as determined by the Visual Signal Area MeasurementMethod disclosed herein. And, a second visual signal is disposed on thesecond wing, wherein the second visual signal comprises a second visualsignal area, and wherein the second visual signal area is disposedasymmetrically with respect to the second bisecting line as determinedby the Visual Signal Area Measurement Method disclosed herein.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

While the specification concludes with claims particularly pointing outand distinctly claiming the subject matter of the present invention, itis believed that the invention can be more readily understood from thefollowing description taken in connection with the accompanying drawingsdescribed below.

FIG. 1A is a representation of a feminine pad in accordance with thepresent disclosure.

FIG. 1B is an illustration of a first end of the feminine pad of FIG.1A.

FIG. 1C is an illustration of a second end of the feminine pad of FIG.1A.

FIG. 1D is an illustration of an intermediate region of the feminine padof FIG. 1A.

FIG. 1E is an illustration of the feminine pad of FIG. 1A highlightingthe pitch length thereof.

FIG. 1F is an illustration of the feminine pad of FIG. 1A highlightingthe width thereof.

FIG. 2A is an illustration of a first wing of the feminine pad of FIG.1A.

FIG. 2B is an illustration of a second wing of the feminine pad of FIG.1A.

FIG. 3 is an illustration of another form of first and second wings inaccordance with the present disclosure.

FIG. 4 is an illustration of another form of first and second wings inaccordance with the present disclosure.

FIG. 5 is an illustration of a feminine pad comprising a visual signalin accordance with the present disclosure.

FIG. 6 is an illustration of a feminine pad attached to a panty withwings wrapped around the panty.

FIG. 7A is an illustration of an underside of a feminine pad inaccordance with the present disclosure.

FIG. 7B is an illustration of a first wing of the feminine pad of FIG.7A.

FIG. 7C is an illustration of a second wing of the feminine pad of FIG.7A.

FIG. 8 is an illustration showing a close up view of the first wing ofFIG. 7B.

FIG. 9A is an illustration of the first wing in FIG. 7B further showingcoverage areas and a grasping area.

FIG. 9B is an illustration of the second wing of FIG. 7C further showingcoverage areas and a grasping area.

FIG. 9C is an illustration of wings wrapped around a panty and alsoshowing coverage areas of the wings.

FIG. 10 is a schematic plan view of the feminine pad of FIG. 1A withportions cut-away for ease of view of some of the internal features ofthe feminine pad.

FIG. 11 is a schematic plan view of a secondary topsheet suitable foruse with the feminine pads of the present disclosure.

FIG. 12 is a photograph showing a feminine pad in accordance with thepresent disclosure.

FIG. 13 is a photograph showing another feminine pad in accordance withthe present disclosure.

FIG. 14 is a representation showing another feminine pad constructed inaccordance with the present disclosure.

FIG. 15A is a representation showing a cross-section of another femininepad constructed in accordance with the present disclosure.

FIG. 15B is a representation showing a supplemental absorbent member ofthe feminine pad of FIG. 15A.

FIG. 16 is a representation showing a feminine pad constructed inaccordance with the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The feminine pad according to the present disclosure can provide easilydiscernable placement and orientation guides which reduce the likelihoodof misapplication by the user. The feminine pad of the presentdisclosure has a unique shape, including a pair of wings which areuniquely shaped, collectively which act as an easily discernableplacement/orientation guide for a user. The easily discernableplacement/orientation guide reduces the likelihood of misapplication ofthe feminine pad, and therefore increasing the likelihood of a good userexperience. Additionally, these placement/orientation guides can beprovided in an array of products which similarly may facilitate the useof variable sized articles within the array. Each of these features isdiscussed in additional detail herein.

As used herein “array” means a display of packages comprising disposablearticles of different sizes having like article constructions (e.g.,same elastomeric materials [compositionally and/or structurally] in theflaps, graphic elements) said packages having the same brand and/orsub-brand, and said packages oriented in proximity to each other in agiven area of a retail store. An array is marketed as a line-up ofproducts normally having like packaging elements (e.g., packagingmaterial type, film, paper, dominant color, design theme, etc.) thatconvey to consumers that the different individual packages are part of alarger line-up. Arrays often have the same brand, for example, “Depend,”and same sub-brand, for example, “for Women Underwear.” A differentarray may have the brand “Depend” and the sub-brand “Silhouette ForWomen.” The differences between the “for Women Underwear” array and the“Silhouette For Women” arrays include different elastomeric materials inthe side flaps, where “for Women Underwear” comprises strands as theelastomeric material and “Silhouette For Women” comprises a filmelastomeric material.” Furthermore, the packaging is distinctlydifferent in that “for Women Underwear” is packaged in a predominatelygreen, film bag and “Silhouette For Women” is packaged in apredominately maroon box. Further regarding “Arrays,” as another exampleof two separate “arrays” having the same brand, “Certainty,” one line-uphas the sub-brand “Women's Underwear.” A different array may have thesame brand “Certainty” and the sub-brand “Smooth Shape Briefs forWomen.” The differences between the “Women's Underwear” array and the“Smooth Shape Briefs for Women” arrays include different elastomericmaterials in the side flaps, where “Women's Underwear” comprises strandsas the elastomeric material and “Smooth Shape Briefs for Women”comprises a film elastomeric material.” Furthermore, the packaging isdistinctly different in that “Women's Underwear” is packaged in apredominately blue, film bag and “Smooth Shape Briefs for Women” ispackaged in a predominately maroon box.

Arrays also often have the same trademarks, including trademarks of thebrand, sub-brand, and/or features and/or benefits across the line-up.

“On-line Array” means an “Array” distributed by a common on-line source.

It will be appreciated that pads of the present disclosure may take amultitude of different forms while still providing intuitive padorientation and attachment cues to a user which in turn provideoptimized and sustained coverage when the pad is attached to a panty.Pads of the present disclosure comprise a first end, a second endopposing the first end, and an intermediate region joining the first endand the second end. In some forms, a width W_(f) of the first end isless than a width W_(s) of the second end. Having a narrower first endhelps a user to intuitively know which way the pad should be orientedwhen in use.

Furthermore, pads of the present disclosure have first and second wings,extending laterally outboard of the chassis in opposing directions,generally in the area of the intermediate region. First and second wingsare asymmetric about bisecting lines that are coincident with orsubstantially parallel to a lateral centerline of the pads. Theasymmetric wings enable the pads to be securely fastened to a user'sunderwear when in use by providing cues for the user on how and where tofasten the wings on an underside of the underwear.

In pads of the present disclosure, the first wing is divided into firstdistal and first proximal zones, and the second wing is divided intosecond distal and second proximal zones. The first and second distalzones comprise an edge of each respective wing that is located furthestoutboard of the chassis. That is, the first distal zone comprises anedge of the first wing located furthest outboard of the chassis and, bycontrast, an edge of the first proximal zone is located nearer thechassis. Similarly, the second distal zone comprises an edge of thesecond wing located furthest outboard of the chassis and the secondproximal zone comprises an edge that is located nearer the chassis. Thepresence of a distal zone that extends from the chassis beyond theproximal zone of the wing provides a clear indication to a user wherethey should grab the wing when fastening to a panty.

In some forms, the first distal zone and second distal zone arelongitudinally offset from each other. For example, if the first distalzone is located proximal to the first end of the pad, the second distalzone is located proximal to the second end of the pad. Where the distalzones of the first and second wings are longitudinally offset from eachother, the wings may be securely fastened on the underside of a pantywithout overlapping.

Each of these areas can play a role in providing intuitive padorientation cues which in turn can provide intuitive pad attachmentcues. Each of the first end, second end, and intermediate regions arediscussed in additional detail herein. And, while the description hereinreferences “feminine pads” or “feminine hygiene pads,” the features ofthe article described herein shall be equally applicable to pantyliners, menstrual pads, and adult incontinence pads.

Pad Orientation/Placement

FIGS. 1 to 16 describe different examples of absorbent articles—orcomponents thereof—of the present disclosure that may share the featuresdescribed above. A feminine hygiene pad constructed in accordance withthe present disclosure is shown in FIG. 1A. FIG. 1A depicts an outerperiphery of a feminine pad 10. The feminine pad 10 may comprise achassis 20 and a pair of wings 60 and 70 extending outboard of thechassis 20. The chassis 20 has a first end 25 and a second end 27 and anintermediate region 29 disposed between the first end 25 and the secondend 27. The feminine pad 10 further comprises a longitudinal centerline80 and a lateral centerline 90 which is disposed generally perpendicularto the longitudinal centerline 80. And, the chassis 20 may furthercomprise a topsheet, a backsheet, and an absorbent core disposed betweenthe topsheet and the backsheet. The topsheet, backsheet, and absorbentcore are discussed in additional detail herein.

Regarding the chassis 20, the first end 25 comprises a pair oflongitudinal side edges 25A and 25B and a first end edge 25C which joinsthe longitudinal side edges 25A and 25B. The longitudinal side edges 25Aand 25B may be disposed generally parallel to the longitudinalcenterline 80. Similarly, the second end 27 may comprise a pair oflongitudinal side edges 27A and 27B which are disposed generallyparallel to the longitudinal centerline 80. A second end edge 27C joinsthe longitudinal side edges 27A and 27B. Note that the term “generallyparallel” does not require the longitudinal side edges to be absolutelyparallel. In the specific case of the longitudinal side edges 25A, 25B,27A and 27B, their respective inclination to the longitudinal centerline80 is discussed in additional detail herein.

The delineation between the first end 25, second end 27, andintermediate region 29 can be dependent upon the extension of the wingsfrom the chassis 20. For example, the delineation between the first end25 and the intermediate region 29 can be approximated by determining afirst intersection point between longitudinal side edge 25A and aleading edge of wing 70 and a second intersection point betweenlongitudinal side edge 25B and a leading edge of wing 60. A first linegenerally parallel to the lateral centerline 90 extending from the firstintersection point to the second intersection point, provides a usefulapproximation of the delineation between the first end 25 and theintermediate region 29. As another example, the delineation between thesecond end 27 and the intermediate region 29 can be determined in muchthe same way as described above. For example, finding a thirdintersection point between a trailing edge of wing 70 and thelongitudinal side edge 27A and a fourth intersection point between atrailing edge of wing 60 and the longitudinal side edge 27B can behelpful. A second line generally parallel to the lateral centerline 90extending from the third intersection point to the fourth intersectionpoint, provides a useful approximation of the delineation between thesecond end 27 and the intermediate region 29. The pertinent edges of thewings 60 and 70 are discussed in additional detail hereafter.

Focusing on the first end 25 in FIG. 1B, it is worth noting that thefirst end edge 25C tapers toward an apex 26. The tapering of the firstend edge 25C toward the apex 26 in the first end 25 can help a weareridentify the correct orientation of the feminine pad 10 in the panty.For example, due to the tapering of the first end edge 25C toward theapex 26, a user may be able to more easily identify a front of thefeminine pad 10 as opposed to the second end edge 27C which is morerounded as discussed below.

As shown, the first end 25 may also comprise a width Wf which isgenerally parallel to the lateral centerline 90 (shown in FIG. 1A). Thewidth Wf represents the widest portion of the first end 25. The width Wfis discussed in additional detail hereafter.

Additionally, the first end edges 25A and 25B may be inclined slightlyinward from the first end edge 25C. Such inclination by the first endedges 25A and 25B provide for a smaller width chassis 20 moving from thefirst end 25 toward the intermediate region 29. This inclination by thefirst end edges 25A and 25B may generally follow the contour of thepanty thereby providing a more comfortable fit within the panty of thewearer.

Moreover, inclined first end edges 25A and 25B can increase thelongevity of a rotary knife system. Rotary knife systems typicallycomprise a die cutting roll and an anvil roll and may be utilized to cutthe final shape of the pad from their respective webs. Edges which aregenerally parallel to an MD direction (generally parallel to thelongitudinal centerline 80) can prematurely wear the anvil roll. In suchinstances, blades of the die cutting roll strike the anvil roll ingenerally a small band width in a CD direction (generally parallel tothe lateral centerline 90). Such repeated strikes can prematurely wearthe die cutting roll and/or the anvil roll. However, where edges areinclined, such as first end edges 25A and 25B, blades of the die cuttingroll strike the anvil roll along an increased band width in the CDdirection. The larger band width on the anvil roll can extend thelongevity of the anvil roll.

Focusing on the second end 27 in FIG. 1C, the second end edge 27C,unlike the first end edge 25C (shown in FIG. 1B), may be more rounded.Again, because of the difference between the first end edge 25C (shownin FIG. 1B) and the second end edge 27C, the likelihood ofmisapplication of the feminine pad 10 to the panty may be decreased. Forexample, because of the shape differences between the first end edge 25Cand the second end edge 27C, a user may be more inclined to orient thefirst end edge 25C in the front of the panty and the second end edge 27Cin the back of the panty—which is the appropriate application.

Additionally, the second end 27 may comprise a width Ws which isgenerally parallel to the lateral centerline 90. The width Ws representsthe widest portion of the second end 27 of the feminine pad 10. Thewidth Ws is discussed in additional detail hereafter.

The side edges 27A and 27B of the second end 27 may be inclined inwardfrom the second end edge 27C. Such inclination of the side edges 27A and27B can provide for a smaller width chassis 20 moving from the secondend 27 toward the intermediate region 29. Much like the first side edges25A and 25B (shown in FIG. 1B), the inclined second side edges 27A and27B can provide longevity for the rotary knife system and can follow thecontour of the panty to provide more comfort.

Referring now to FIGS. 1A-1C, as noted previously, the feminine pad 10may comprise a first end width Wf and a second end width Ws. The widthof the first end Wf may be from about 80 to 103 mm, from about 86 to 102mm, or from about 88 mm to about 100 mm specifically including anyvalues within these ranges and any ranges created thereby. In onespecific form, Wf may be about 88 mm. The width of the second end Ws maybe from about 80 mm to about 170 mm, from about 80 mm to about 140 mm,or from about 80 mm to about 120 mm specifically including any valueswithin these ranges and any ranges created thereby. A ratio of Wf to Wsmay be from about 0.47 to about 1.0, from about 0.75 to about 0.95, orfrom about 0.85 to about 0.90 specifically including any values withinthese ranges and any ranges created thereby. It is worth noting that Wsfor longer pads may be wider to provide additional protection for theuser. The second end on longer pads typically corresponds to additionalpanty area. For the longer pads, e.g. overnight pads, the ratio of Wf toWs may be about 0.7.

Forms are contemplated where an array of absorbent articles constructedin accordance with the present disclosure is provided. In such forms, afirst plurality of articles may have a Wf to Ws ratio of about 1.0 whilea second plurality of absorbent articles may have a Wf to Ws ratio ofless than 1.0. For example, the second plurality of absorbent articlesmay have a Wf to Ws ratio of about 0.7. In some forms, a third pluralityof articles may have a Wf to Ws ratio of about 1.0. Additional forms arecontemplated where a fourth plurality of articles have a Wf to Ws ratioof less than 1.0 but greater than 0.7. Typically, a Wf to Ws ratio of1.0 or less can help the wearer identify which end of the femininehygiene article is associated with the anterior of the body and which isassociated with the posterior. Where the Wf to Ws ratio is 1.0,differences in shape may be utilized to provide the orientation cues.For example, first end may have a more pointed end versus a more roundedend for the second end. Such cues can help the wearer properly orientthe feminine hygiene article appropriately within their underwear.

As noted, the width of the first end 25 may decrease toward theintermediate region 29. Similarly, the width of the second end 27 maydecrease toward the intermediate region 29. In some forms, the first endwidth may decrease to about 53 percent of Wf, about 80 percent of Wf, orabout 95 percent of Wf specifically including any values within theseranges and any ranges created thereby. In some forms, independent of orinclusive of the decrease of the first end width, the second end widthmay decrease to 40 percent of Ws, about 85 percent of Ws, or about 98percent of Ws specifically including any values within these ranges andany ranges created thereby.

Referring back to FIG. 1A, the intermediate region can also contributeto the easily discernable indication of orientation and placement of thefeminine pad 10. The intermediate region 29, corresponds to an area ofthe pad which comprises a target fluid entry zone. Additionally, theintermediate region 29 comprises wings 60 and 70 which extend outboardof the chassis 20. The wings of the present disclosure can help providea user with a placement guide such that the vaginal opening correspondsto the intermediate region 29 and the target fluid entry zone of thefeminine pad.

The target fluid entry zone of the feminine pad 10 should line up withthe vaginal opening. And the target fluid entry zone for the femininepads of the present disclosure can be identified by drawing a firstimaginary line connecting the first intersection point betweenlongitudinal side edge 25A and a leading edge of wing 70 and the fourthintersection point between a trailing edge of wing 60 and thelongitudinal side edge 27B. A second imaginary line connecting thesecond intersection point between longitudinal side edge 25B and aleading edge of wing 60 and the third intersection point between atrailing edge of wing 70 and the longitudinal side edge 27A can also bedrawn. An intersection between the first imaginary line and the secondimaginary line can provide a useful approximation for the target fluidentry zone.

The wings of the present disclosure comprise various zone/areas whichcan facilitate orientation and/or placement of the feminine pad within apanty. Bisecting lines will be utilized hereafter to describe thevarious zones/areas of the wings of the feminine pads in accordance withthe present disclosure. In some forms, one or more of the bisectinglines may be co-linear with the lateral centerline 90 of the femininepad. In some forms, the bisecting lines may be offset from the lateralcenterline. For example, one or more of the bisecting lines may be on afirst side of the lateral centerline 90—more proximal to the first end.As another example, one or more of the bisecting lines may be on asecond side of the lateral centerline 80—more proximal to the secondend. As yet another example, one bisecting line may be on a first sideof the lateral centerline while a second bisecting line may be on asecond side of the lateral centerline. As yet another example, thebisecting lines may be co-linear with each other. And in some forms, thewings described herein are asymmetric about their respective bisectingline.

Focusing on the intermediate region 29 in FIG. 1D, the wings 60 and 70are discussed in additional detail. Each of the wings 60 and 70 comprisean outer periphery defined, in part, by their respective leading edgesand trailing edges. Additional edges may be disposed between the leadingedges and trailing edges connecting the leading and trailing edgestogether.

As shown, wing 60 may comprise a leading edge 261 and a trailing edge265. The leading edge 261 is disposed more proximal to the first end 25than the second end 27 (each shown in FIG. 1A). Conversely, the trailingedge 265 is disposed more proximal to the second end 27 than the leadingedge 261. Each of the leading edge 261 and the trailing edge 265 extendoutboard of the chassis 20 and outboard of the longitudinal side edges25B and 27B (each shown in FIG. 1A).

In some forms, wing 60 may further comprise a first proximal edge 262which extends from the first leading edge 261 away from the first end 25and generally parallel to the longitudinal centerline 80. A firsttransition edge 263 extends from the first proximal edge 262 slightlyoutboard of the first proximal edge 262 and more proximal to the secondend 27. A first distal edge 264 extends from the first trailing edge 265toward the first end 25 and intersects with the first transition edge263.

As shown, the first proximal edge 261 and the first distal edge 264 areboth disposed outboard of the sides edges 25B and 27B. However, thefirst distal edge 264 is disposed outboard by a greater extent than thefirst proximal edge 261. As noted previously, the wings of the presentdisclosure comprise various zones and areas. Such zones will bedescribed hereafter.

Wing 70 may be configured similarly with regard to wing 60. For example,wing 70 comprises a second leading edge 271 and a second trailing edge275. The leading edge 271 is disposed more proximal to the first end 25than the second end 27. Conversely, the trailing edge 275 is disposedmore proximal to the second end 27 than the leading edge 271. Each ofthe leading edge 271 and the trailing edge 275 extend outboard of thechassis 20 and outboard of the longitudinal side edges 25A and 25B(shown in FIG. 1A).

In some forms, wing 70 may further comprise a second distal edge 272which extends from the second leading edge 271 away from the first end25 and generally parallel to the longitudinal centerline 80. A secondtransition edge 273 extends from the second distal edge 272 slightlyinboard of the second distal edge 272 and more proximal to the secondend 27. A second proximal edge 274 extends from the second trailing edge275 toward the first end 25 and intersects with the second transitionedge 273.

As shown, the second proximal edge 274 and the second distal edge 272are both disposed outboard of the sides edges 25B and 27B. However, thesecond distal edge 272 is disposed outboard by a greater extent than thesecond proximal edge 274. As noted previously, the wings of the presentdisclosure comprise various zones and areas. Such zones will bedescribed hereafter.

Referring to FIG. 1E, the feminine pad 10 may comprise a pitch length PLwhich is generally parallel to the longitudinal centerline 80. As notedherein, feminine pads may be provided in a variety of sizes toaccommodate different loads and to accommodate different times of theday for use. For example, an overnight feminine pad may have a pitchlength which is longer than that of a day use feminine pad. In someforms, feminine pads of the present disclosure may have a pitch lengthPL of between about 200 mm to about 350 mm, from about 220 mm to about320 mm, or from about 230 mm to about 310 mm, specifically reciting allvalues within these ranges and any ranges created thereby.

Forms are also contemplated where an array of articles is provided. Insuch forms, a first plurality of absorbent articles may have a pitchlength of between about 210 mm to about 250 mm, from about 220 mm toabout 240 mm, or from about 230 mm to about 235 mm, specificallyincluding all values within these ranges and any ranges created thereby.In one particular form, the first plurality of absorbent articles canhave a pitch length of about 232 mm. A second plurality of absorbentarticles may have a pitch length PL greater than 232 mm. For example,the second plurality of absorbent articles may have a pitch length offrom between 240 mm to about 370 mm, from about 260 mm to about 350 mm,or from about 270 mm to about 340 mm, specifically including all valueswithin these ranges and any ranges created thereby. In one particularform, the second plurality of absorbent articles may have a pitch lengthof about 334 mm. In some forms, a third plurality of absorbent articlesmay have a pitch length PL of greater than about 232 mm and less thanabout 334 mm. For example, the third plurality of absorbent articles mayhave a pitch length PL of about 270 mm or about 274 mm. Forms arecontemplated where a fourth plurality of absorbent articles has a pitchlength PL of about 300 mm or about 304 mm.

Referring now to FIG. 1F, the feminine pad 10 may comprise a width Wwwhich is generally parallel to the lateral centerline 90. The width Wwmay be greater than about 130 mm, greater than about 140 mm, greaterthan about 150 mm, greater than about 160 mm, or less than about 180 mm,specifically including all values within these ranges and any rangescreated thereby. In one particular form, the width Ww of the pad 10 maybe about 156 mm. Forms are contemplated where the width of the pads varyalong with pitch length PL. Other forms are contemplated where the widthWw of the pad 10 is constant even though the pitch length varies.Similar to the wing length, when the width Ww of the pad 10 is the sameor very close to the same for the variable pitch lengths, this canfacilitate application of the pad 10 to the underwear of a user. Forexample, where the Ww of the pad 10 is the same or very close to thesame, e.g. within 20 percent, the user has some familiarity with thiswidth and therefore may not have to greatly adjust how pads are appliedto the underwear despite their variable pitch length.

In some forms, a ratio of the width Ww of the pad 10 to the first widthWf can be greater than about 1.5, greater than about 1.6, greater thanabout 1.7, greater than about 1.9, or greater than about 2.0,specifically including all values within these ranges and any rangescreated thereby. In some specific forms, particularly those where Wf andWw are constant despite pitch length, a ratio of Ww to Wf can be about1.77. For those forms where either Wf and/or Ww vary along with pitchlength PL, the ratios may increase with increasing pitch length. Muchlike the above, where the ratio of width Ww and Wf remains very close tothe same, e.g. within 20 percent, this can facilitate the application ofthe feminine hygiene article to the underwear of the user.

As shown in FIG. 2A, the wing 60 may have a length 283 which isgenerally parallel to longitudinal centerline. The length 283 is definedby an intersection of the leading edge 261 and the side edge 25B and anintersection of the trailing edge 265 and the side edge 27B. A bisectingline 287 which bisects the length 283 is generally parallel to thelateral centerline 90 (shown in FIG. 1A) and can serve as a boundarybetween a first proximal zone 281 and a first distal zone 285. As shown,the bisecting line 287 may intersect the first distal edge 264, thefirst transition edge 263 or the first proximal edge 262 depending onthe design of the wing 60. Additionally, a fold line 280 may be createdfor the wing 60. The intersections which defines the length 283similarly defines the endpoints of the fold line 280.

In some forms, for wing 60, the first proximal zone 281 is defined bythe first leading edge 261, the first proximal edge 262, the firstbisecting line 287, the fold line 280, and depending on the shape ofwing 60, the first transition edge 263. In some forms, the firstbisecting line 287 may intersect the first proximal edge 262. In suchforms, the first transition edge 263 would not form part of the boundaryof the first proximal zone 281. In other forms, the first bisecting line287 may intersect the first distal edge 264. In such forms, the firstdistal edge 264 would form part of the boundary of the first proximalzone 281. The first distal zone 285 is defined by the first bisectingline 287, the fold line 283, the first trailing edge 265, the firstdistal edge 264, and depending on the shape of the wing, the firsttransition edge 263. As shown, the first distal zone 285 may comprisethe laterally outermost extents of the wing 60

Wing 70 may be similarly constructed as discussed with regard to wing60. As shown in FIG. 2B, the wing 70 may have a length 293 which isgenerally parallel to longitudinal centerline. The length 293 is definedby an intersections of the leading edge 271 and the side edge 25A and anintersection of the trailing edge 275 and the side edge 27A. A secondbisecting line 297 which bisects the length 293 is generally parallel tothe lateral centerline 90 (shown in FIG. 1A) and can serve as a boundarybetween a second proximal zone 295 and a second distal zone 291. Asshown, the second bisecting line 297 may intersect the second transitionedge 273, the second distal edge 272 or the second proximal edge 274.Additionally, a fold line 290 may be created for the wing 70. Theintersections which define the length 293 similarly define the endpointsof the fold line 290.

In some forms, for wing 70, the second distal zone 291 is defined by thesecond leading edge 271, the second distal edge 272, the secondbisecting line 297, the fold line 290, and depending on the shape ofwing 70, the second transition edge 273. In some forms, the secondbisecting line 297 may intersect the second distal edge 272. In suchforms, the second transition edge 273 would not form part of theboundary of the second distal zone 291. As shown in FIG. 2B, the seconddistal zone 291 may comprise the laterally outermost extents of wing 70.In some forms, the second bisecting line 297 may intersect the secondproximal edge 274. In such forms, the second proximal edge 274 may format least a portion of the boundary of the second distal zone 291. Thesecond proximal zone 295 is defined by the second bisecting line 297,the fold line 290, the second trailing edge 275, the second proximaledge 274 and, depending on the shape of the wing, the second transitionedge 273.

Referring now to FIGS. 2A and 2B, the length 283 of wing 60 and thelength 293 of wing 70 may be equal or at least within about 10 percentof one another. However, forms of the present invention are contemplatedwhere the lengths 283 and 293 of the wings 60 and 70, respectivelydiffer by more than about 20 percent, more than about 30 percent, ormore than about 50 percent.

The lengths 283 and 293 of wings 60 and 70, respectively, may be fromabout 80 to 130 mm, from about 90 to about 120 mm, or from about 100 toabout 110 mm. In one particular form, the wing lengths may be about 110mm. Forms are contemplated where an array of feminine pads is providedwherein each of the pads within the array have different pitch lengthsPL but have the same wing length. For example, a ratio of wing length topitch length may be from about 0.6 to about 0.25, from about 0.5 toabout 0.3, specifically including all values within these ranges and anyranges created thereby. In some particular forms, the ratio of winglength to pitch length PL can be about 0.47 for a first plurality ofabsorbent articles and about 0.36 for a second plurality of absorbentarticles. A third plurality of absorbent articles may have a wing lengthto pitch length PL ratio of less than 0.47 and greater than 0.36.

In such forms, particularly where the wing lengths are constantregardless of pitch length PL, the user's application of the femininepad to their underwear may be facilitated. For example, even with thelonger feminine pads, the wing length consistency among products withinthe array can allow the user to get used to the application of the wingsto the underwear. This can facilitate the application of the femininehygiene articles to the underwear, whereas variable length wings mayinhibit such facilitation.

FIG. 3 depicts another version of the intermediate region 29 of thefeminine pad 10 of the present disclosure. Similar to wing 60 discussedabove, wing 360 may comprise a first leading edge 361 and a firsttrailing edge 365. A first proximal edge 362 may extend from the firstleading edge 361 toward the first trailing edge 365. However, unlike thefirst proximal edge 262 (shown in FIGS. 1D and 2A), the first proximaledge 362 may be more curvilinear in nature. A first transition edge 363may also be much more curvilinear than its counterpart 263 (shown inFIGS. 1D and 2A). A first distal edge 364 extends from the firsttransition edge 363 and intersects the first trailing edge 365. Thezones of wing 360 may be determined similar to the methodology describedabove.

Wing 370 may comprise a second leading edge 371 and a second trailingedge 375. A second distal edge 372 may extend from the second leadingedge 371 toward the second trailing edge 375. However, unlike the seconddistal edge 272 (shown in FIGS. 1D and 2B), the second proximal edge 372may be more curvilinear in nature. A second transition edge 373 may alsobe much more curvilinear than its counterpart 273 (shown in FIGS. 1D and2B). A second proximal edge 374 extends from the second transition edge373 and intersects the second trailing edge 375. The zones of wing 370may be determined similar to the methodology described above.

For example, a length 383 of wing 360 may be determined by theintersection of the first leading edge 361 and the side edges of thechassis and the intersection of the first trailing edge 365 and the sideedges of the chassis. The length 383 is generally parallel to thelongitudinal centerline 80 (shown in FIG. 1A). A first bisecting line387 which bisects the length 383 may extend generally parallel to thelateral centerline 90 (shown in FIG. 1A) and may intersect the firsttransition edge 363. In some forms, the first bisecting line 387 mayintersect the first proximal edge 362 or the first distal edge 364,depending on the design of the wing 360.

As shown, a first proximal zone 381 of wing 360 may be bounded by thefirst leading edge 361, the first proximal edge 362, the first bisectingline 387, the first fold line 380, and depending on the shape of thewing 360 the first transition edge 363. In some forms, the bisectingline 387 may intersect the first distal edge 364. In such forms, thefirst distal edge 364 may form a portion of the first proximal zone 381.In other forms, the bisecting line 387 may intersect the first proximaledge 362, in such forms, the first transition edge 363 may not form aportion of the first proximal zone 381.

A first distal zone 385 may be defined by the first trailing edge 365,the first distal edge 364, the first bisecting line 387, the fold line383, and depending on the shape of the wing, the first transition edge363. The first distal zone 385 may comprise the laterally outermostextents of the wing 360.

A wing 370 may be configured similarly to the wing 360. Namely, the wing370 may comprise a length 393 which is determined by the intersection ofthe second leading edge 371 and the side edges of the chassis and theintersection of the second trailing edge 375 and the side edges of thechassis. A second bisecting line 397 extends from the fold line 393generally parallel to the lateral centerline 90 (shown in FIG. 1A) andintersects the second distal edge 372. In some forms, the secondbisecting line 397 may intersect the second proximal edge 374 or thesecond transition edge 363, depending on the design of the wing 370.

A second distal zone 391 and a second proximal zone 395 may be defined,in part, by the second bisecting line 397. The second distal zone 391may comprise the laterally outermost extents of the wing 370. The seconddistal zone 391 may be defined by the second leading edge 371, thesecond distal edge 372, the second bisecting line 397, the fold line393, and depending on the shape of the wing 370, the second transitionedge 373. In some forms, the second bisecting line 397 may intersect thefirst distal edge 372. In such forms, the second transition edge 373would not form part of the boundary of the second distal zone 391. Inother forms, the second bisecting line 397 may intersect the secondproximal edge 374. In such forms, the second proximal edge 374 may forma portion of the boundary of the second distal zone 391.

A second proximal zone 395 may similarly be created by the secondbisecting line 397. The second proximal zone 395 may be defined by thesecond trailing edge 375, the second proximal edge 374, the secondbisecting line 397, the fold line 393, and depending on the shaped ofthe wing, the second transition edge 373.

FIG. 4 depicts yet another version of the intermediate region 29 of thefeminine pad 10 of the present disclosure. As shown wing 460 maycomprise a leading edge 461 which extends from side edges of the chassistoward the second end of the feminine pad. As shown, the leading edge461 may extend toward the second end of the feminine pad and also extendoutboard of the chassis. However, in the form shown, the wing 460 maynot comprise a first proximal edge like the forms discussed heretofore.Instead, the first leading edge 461 may transition into a first distaledge 464. And, the first distal edge 464 may transition into a firsttrailing edge 465 which joins the first distal edge 464 and the chassis.

A length 483 of wing 460 may be determined by the intersection of thefirst leading edge 461 and the side edges of the chassis and theintersection of the first trailing edge 465 and the side edges of thechassis. The length 483 is generally parallel to the longitudinalcenterline 80 (shown in FIG. 1A). A first bisecting line 487 whichbisects the length 483 may extend generally parallel to the lateralcenterline 90 (shown in FIG. 1A) and may intersect the first leadingedge 461 or the first distal edge 464, depending on the design of thewing 460.

As shown, a first proximal zone 481 of wing 460 may be bounded by thefirst leading edge 461, the first bisecting line 487, and the first foldline 480. In some forms, the bisecting line 487 may intersect the firstdistal edge 464. In such forms, the first distal edge 464 may form aportion of the first proximal zone 481. A first distal zone 485 may bedefined by the first trailing edge 465, the first distal edge 464, thefirst bisecting line 487, and the fold line 480. The first distal zone485 may comprise the laterally outermost extents of the wing 460.

Wing 470 may comprise a second leading edge 471 and a second trailingedge 475. A second distal edge 472 may extend from the second leadingedge 471 to the second trailing edge 475. A length 493 of wing 470 maybe determined by the intersection of the second leading edge 471 and theside edges of the chassis and the intersection of the second trailingedge 475 and the side edges of the chassis. The length 493 is generallyparallel to the longitudinal centerline 80 (shown in FIG. 1A). A secondbisecting line 497 which bisects the length 493 may extend generallyparallel to the lateral centerline 90 (shown in FIG. 1A) and mayintersect the second trailing edge 475 or the second distal edge 472,depending on the design of the wing 470.

A second distal zone 491 and a second proximal zone 495 may be defined,in part, by the second bisecting line 497. The second distal zone 491may comprise the laterally outermost extents of the wing 470. The seconddistal zone 491 may be defined by the second leading edge 471, thesecond distal edge 472, the second bisecting line 497, and the fold line490. In some forms, the second bisecting line 497 may intersect thesecond distal edge 472. The second proximal zone 495 may similarly becreated by the second bisecting line 497. The second proximal zone 495may be defined by the second trailing edge 475, the second bisectingline 497, the fold line 490, and depending on the shape of the wing, thesecond distal edge 472.

As shown in FIGS. 1A-4, the wings are asymmetric with respect to eachother. Such asymmetry can contribute to the overall indication of thecorrect placement and correct orientation of the feminine pad within thepanty. And, as noted previously, the correct placement and correctorientation can allow the absorbent core and other portions of thefeminine pad to function with more efficacy than if improperly placed ororiented.

For each of the wings shown in FIGS. 2A-4, each is asymmetric about itsbisecting line. Again, this asymmetry can help facilitate application ofthe pad to the panty. And, such asymmetry can similarly facilitateremoval of the pad from the panty as described herein. As shown, each ofthe distal zones has a larger surface area than their respectiveproximal zones.

Proper Attachment of the Pad

In order to facilitate fastening the wings onto the panty of a wearer,the wearer should be appropriately apprised regarding where to grasp thewings. Improper handling of the wings could produce wrinkles in thewings during fastening. These wrinkles can cause discomfort and may leadto premature detachment of the feminine pad from the panty. For example,referring back to FIGS. 2A and 2B, if the user were to grasp either thewing 60 or 70 in the first proximal zone 281 or the second proximal zone295, respectively, wrinkles could be created in each of the wings 60 and70. The inventors have found that the better approach to reduce thelikelihood of wrinkles within the wings during fastening occurs when thewings are grasped by their respective distal zones. Because the distalzones extend outboard to a further extent than does the proximal zones,the distal zones can more easily manipulate the proximal zones. Whilegrasping each of the wings at two different longitudinal locations mayseem counterintuitive, such application can enhance the experienceprovided to the wearer during use. For example, as noted previously,such application can reduce the likelihood of wrinkles in the wingswhich can enhance the comfort to the user.

In order to advocate proper application of the wings to the panty,visual signals may be employed which help provide an indication of whereto grasp the wings. For example, referring to FIGS. 2A and 2B, in someforms, embossing may be provided in the first distal zone 285 of wing 60and the first distal zone 291 in wing 70. As another example, a visualsignal may comprise printing in the first distal zone 285 of wing 60 andin the second distal zone 291 of wing 70. In yet another example, avisual signal may comprise a combination of printing and embossing inthe first distal zone 285 and the second distal zone 291.

To avoid confusion during the application of the wings 60 and 70, thedensity of the visual signals on the wings 60 and 70 should be higher inthe first distal zone 285 and second distal zone 291 than in the firstproximal zone 281 and the second proximal zone 295, respectively. Forexample, where the visual signal comprises embossing, the level ofembossing in the first distal zone 285 should be higher than the levelof embossing in the first proximal zone 281. In such examples, theamount of surface area of the respective zones may be compared todetermine which zone has a higher level of embossing. Where the visualsignal comprises printing, the amount of surface area of the respectivezones may be compared to determine which zone has a higher level ofprinting thereon. Where the visual signal comprises a combination ofembossing and printing, the amount of surface area of the respectivezones may be compared to determine which zone has a higher level ofembossing or printing.

In some specific forms, the visual signal may be more direct and may notsubscribe to the above. For example, in some forms, the visual signalmay comprise an arrow or something similar which connotes a directionwhich is disposed adjacent to the intersection between the firsttrailing edge 265 and the first distal edge 264 or the intersectionbetween the second leading edge 271 and the second distal edge 272. Insuch forms, the visual signal may need to be placed within 10 mm within8 mm, within 6 mm, or within 5 mm of the first distal edge 264 of thewing 60 and/or the second distal edge 272 of the wing 70 specificallyincluding any values within these ranges and any ranges created thereby.

While alternative wing configurations are contemplated, withoutimplementation of the above visual signal, the application of the wingscould lead to wrinkles and or other asperities in application of thefeminine pad. And as stated before, such wrinkles may lead to prematuredetachment of the pad from the panty or may preclude attachment to thepanty altogether. Alternative wing configurations are provided withregard to FIGS. 3 and 4.

An example of a visual signal provided on the wings of the feminine padsof the present disclosure is provided with regard to FIG. 5. Aspreviously discussed, the distal zones may comprise a higher amount ofvisual signaling than their proximal zone counterparts. Such signalingcan facilitate the application of the feminine pad 10 (shown in FIG. 1A)by prompting a user to grasp the wings 60, 70, 360, 370, 460, and 470(shown in FIGS. 1A-4), in the appropriate locations for fastening aboutthe panty of the wearer. Methods for measuring the amount of visualsignaling are disclosed herein. Note that bisecting lines 587 and 597have been provided which approximates a boundary between distal andproximal zones for the wings 60 and 70, respectively.

As shown, a print signal 515 may be disposed on a first surface 501 ofwing 60 primarily in a distal zone 585 of the wing 60. While the printsignal 515 may also exist in a proximal zone 581 of wing 60, a largerarea of print is provided in the distal zone 585 of the wing 60.

Wing 70 may be similarly configured. For example, a print signal 535 maybe disposed, primarily, on a first surface 502 in a distal zone 591 ofthe wing 70. While the print signal 535 may also exist in a proximalzone 595 of wing 70, a larger area of print is provided in the distalzone 595 of the wing 70.

And as stated previously, the visual signals described herein are notlimited to print signals. In some forms, embossing may be utilized toprovide the indication described herein. In other forms, a combinationof print and embossing may be utilized. In other forms, differentcolored materials, e.g. dyed materials, may be utilized to signal to theuser where to grasp.

The wings, in a fastened configuration, can provide another visualattribute indicating proper attachment to the panty. FIG. 6 is adepiction of a pair of wings 660 and 670 in a fastened configurationwrapped around a panty 600. As shown, wings 660 and 670 appear to nestwhen fastened to the panty. Specifically, a second distal zone 691 nestswith a first proximal zone 681. And similarly, a first distal zone 685nests with a second proximal zone 695.

The wings 670 and 660 may be designed such that for normal panties(excludes tanga underwear) the wings 660 and 670 do not overlap in use.As such, a gap 613 may exist between the wings 660 and 670 during use. Agap 613 may be highly variable as users can apply the wings of thepresent disclosure in a variety of different configurations and as pantycrotch widths can vary greatly. For example, some users may attach thepad of the present disclosure to their panty such that the wings have a0 mm gap between the wings. As another example, some users may fastenthe wings to the panty such that the wings are broadly spaced apart,e.g. 3 mm, 5 mm, 7 mm, or 10 mm.

Additionally, the gap 613 can provide a visual indication of when thefeminine pad is skewed with respect to the panty 600. For example, wherethe second distal zone 691 overlaps or contacts the first distal zone685, this can indicate that the pad is skewed with respect to the panty600. As another example, where the gap 613 has an uneven width from afirst offset portion 613A to a second offset portion 613B, this canindicate skew with regard to the pad with respect to the panty 600. And,while a user may not be able to visualize the orientation of the wings660 and 670 on the underside of the panty 600 during application, thegap 613 can provide a tactile cue to the user as to whether the pad isskewed with respect to the panty 600.

Additionally, the gap 613 may facilitate removal of the feminine pad.Where wings overlap, wing adhesive can adhere one wing to another of thewings. This can increase the difficulty of separating the wings from thepanty during removal. Generally, in this scenario, a user would have toseparate the wings from one another prior to removal of the wings fromthe panty.

As shown, the gap 613 may comprise offset portions 613A and 613B. Asshown, portion 613A may be offset from the longitudinal centerline 80(shown in FIG. 1A) in a first direction, and portion 613B may be offsetfrom the longitudinal centerline 80 (shown in FIG. 1A) in a seconddirection which is opposite the first direction. In some forms, thefirst portion 613A may be aligned with the longitudinal centerline 80(shown in FIG. 1A) while the second portion 613B may be offset from thelongitudinal centerline 80 (shown in FIG. 1A). In other forms, the firstportion 613A may be offset with respect to the longitudinal centerline80 (shown in FIG. 1A) while the second portion 613B is aligned with thelongitudinal centerline 80 (shown in FIG. 1A).

Sustaining Coverage

In addition to providing assistance with the proper orientation of thepad, the shape of the wing can also play a large part in sustainingcoverage and maintaining attachment to the panty. For example, wings ofthe present disclosure may be configured such that an adequate amount offastening adhesive is provided to the wings so that the wings canmaintain adherence to the panty. At the same time, a careful balanceshould be achieved. For example, too much adhesive can make the removalof the pad from the panty a much more arduous task. In contrast toolittle adhesive or ill placed adhesive can cause premature detachment ofthe pad from the panty.

Referring to FIG. 7A, in addition to the visual signaling discussedherein, the dimensions of the distal zones can be an important aspect ofthe feminine pads of the present invention as well as the adhesiveplacement on the wings. The underneath side of the feminine pad 10 isdepicted with adhesive areas 711 and 712 on a second surface 703 of wing760 and adhesive areas 721 and 722 on a second surface 704 of wing 770.

Focusing on wing 760, the adhesive areas 711 and 712 help secure thewing 760 to the panty in use. However, if the adhesive areas 711 and 712are misapplied to the wing 760, then the wing 760 may become moresusceptible to detachment during wear. So, the adhesive areas 711 and712 should be carefully placed upon the wing 760.

As shown in FIG. 7B, the wing 760 comprises a length 783 which can bedetermined as described heretofore with regard to lengths associatedwith wings 60 and 70 (shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B, respectively). Abisecting line 787—generally parallel to the lateral centerline 90(shown in FIG. 1A) bisects the length 783. A first guide line 789 isdrawn from an intersection between the bisecting line 787 and an edge ofthe wing 760, e.g. first leading edge, first transition edge, or thefirst distal edge. The first guide line 789 extends perpendicular to thebisecting line 787 and extends parallel to the longitudinal centerline90 (shown in FIG. 1A). The first guide line 789 should extend into thedistal zone or through the distal zone if its origin is already theresuch that the majority of the first guide line 789 resides in the distalzone of the wing 760. For wing 760, this may mean that the first guideline 789 will extend in a direction which is toward the second end ofthe feminine pad.

A distal zone adhesive length 784 is defined by the intersection betweenthe bisecting line 787 and the first guide line 789 and an intersectionbetween the first guide line 789 and a trailing edge 765 of wing 760. Anadhesive length 785 is generally parallel to the longitudinal centerline90 (shown in FIG. 1A). The adhesive length 785 is determined by theoutermost extents of the adhesive area 711 that are disposed on the wing760.

A ratio of the distal zone adhesive length 784 to the adhesive length785 can be important in ensuring that the wings do not prematurelydetach and in ensuring that the wings are easy to attach and remove. Forexample, if the ratio is too high, then much of the distal zone of wing760 remains without adhesive and can become prematurely detached duringuse. In contrast, if the ratio is too small, the user may not have asufficient area to grasp the wing 760 during removal. Additionally, ifthe ratio is too small, the adhesive areas 711 and 712 may extend beyondthe edges of the wings frustrating the application and removal of thepad from the panty.

Where the ratio is small, pad converting processes may need to beadjusted to ensure that the likelihood of adhesive areas 711 or 721extending beyond the edges of the wings is minimized. For example,during processing, webs often track (move in a cross direction andmachine direction). Web tracking can impact the placement of theadhesive areas on the wings. As another example, adhesive may be appliedto the wings via a carrier sheet. There is variability of the adhesiveapplication to the carrier sheet which can in turn impact the locationof the adhesive areas on the wings. And, prior to packing the femininepad, the wings are typically folded over a topsheet of the feminine pad.There is variability in the folding operation which can impact theplacement of the adhesive on the wings.

Based on the foregoing, a balance should be achieved regarding the ratioof the distal zone adhesive length 784 to the adhesive length 785 toensure that adequate adhesive coverage is achieved along withfacilitated removal when desired. In some forms the ratio of the distalzone adhesive length 784 to the adhesive length 785 may be between about1.15 to about 4.6, about 1.27 to about 2.25, or about 1.38 to about 2.0,specifically including any values within these ranges and any rangescreated thereby.

As shown in FIG. 7C, the wing 770 comprises a length 793 which can bedetermined as described heretofore with regard to lengths associatedwith wings 60 and 70 (shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B, respectively). Abisecting line 797—generally parallel to the lateral centerline 90(shown in FIG. 1A)—bisects the length 793. A second guide line 799 isdrawn from an intersection between the bisecting line 797 and an edge ofthe wing 770, e.g. second leading edge, second transition edge, or thesecond distal edge. The second guide line 799 extends perpendicular tothe bisecting line 797 and extends parallel to the longitudinalcenterline 90 (shown in FIG. 1A). The second guide line 799 shouldextend into the distal zone or through the distal zone if its origin isalready there such that the majority of the first guide line 799 residesin the distal zone of the wing 770. For wing 770, this may mean that thesecond guide line 799 will extend in a direction which is toward thefirst end of the feminine pad.

A distal zone adhesive length 794 is defined by the intersection betweenthe bisecting line 797 and the second guide line 799 and an intersectionbetween the second guide line 799 and a leading edge 771 of wing 760. Anadhesive length 795 is generally parallel to the longitudinal centerline90 (shown in FIG. 1A). The adhesive length 795 is determined by theoutermost extents of the adhesive area 721 that are disposed on the wing770. A ratio of the distal zone adhesive length 794 to the adhesivelength 795 can be within the ranges described heretofore with regard towing 760.

Referring now to FIGS. 7A-7C, as shown, in some forms, the adhesive area711 may be asymmetrically disposed with respect to the bisecting line787. In some forms, the adhesive area 712 may also be disposedasymmetrically with respect to the bisecting line 787 in conjunctionwith adhesive area 711. Similarly, in some forms, the adhesive area 721may be asymmetrically disposed with respect to the bisecting line 797.Similarly, in some forms, the adhesive area 722 may be asymmetricallydisposed with respect to the bisecting line 797 in conjunction withadhesive area 721.

Referring to FIGS. 7B-8, spacing of the adhesive area 711 from thetrailing edge 765 (or the leading edge if wing 770) may be of import inaddition to the ratios discussed above. For, example, as notedpreviously, where the adhesive area 711 extends to the edges of the wing760 or 770, the wing may prove difficult to remove from the panty.Instead, the inventors have found that a small handle (an area free ofadhesive) can facilitate removal. A leading edge/trailing edge spacing885 (generally parallel to the longitudinal centerline 80 (shown in FIG.1A)) can be about 2 mm to about 9 mm, about 3 mm to about 7 mm, or fromabout 4 mm to about 6 mm specifically including any values within theseranges and any ranges created thereby.

Similar spacing considerations may be taken into account regarding adistal edge spacing 886. The distal edge spacing 886 is generallyparallel to the lateral centerline 80 (shown in FIG. 1A). Similar to theleading edge/trailing edge spacing 885, the distal edge spacing 886 maybe about 2 mm to about 9 mm, about 3 mm to about 7 mm, or from about 4mm to about 6 mm specifically including any values within these rangesand any ranges created thereby.

Referring now to FIGS. 5 and 7A, as noted previously, the first printsignal 515 and the second print signal 535 can provide the user with theappropriate indication about where to grasp the wings for properattachment to the panty. Additionally, though, the first print signal515 and the second print signal 535 can provide the user withappropriate indication of where the adhesive areas are on the secondsurface of the wing. For example, the first print signal 515 maycorrespond to the first adhesive area 711 on second surface 703 of thefirst wing 760 such that at least a portion of the first adhesive area711 is disposed within the projection of the first print signal 515 areathrough the first wing 760. In some forms, at least 50 percent of thefirst adhesive area 711 is disposed within the projected area of thefirst print signal 515, at least 75 percent of the first adhesive area711, or at least 100 percent of the first adhesive area 711,specifically including all values within these ranges and any rangescreated thereby.

Referring back to FIG. 7A, another factor of import is the spacing ofthe adhesive areas 712 and 722 from folding lines 780 and 790 for wings760 and 770, respectively. The adhesive area 712 should be spacedadequately from the folding line 780 to ensure that the adhesive area712 does not overlap or lie on the panty leg elastics in the fastenedposition. Similarly, the adhesive area 722 should be adequately spacedfrom the folding line 790 to ensure that the adhesive area 722 does notoverlap or lie on the panty leg elastics in the fastened position. Toaccommodate this aspect, the adhesive areas 712 and 722 may be spacedapart from one another by a distance 781. In some forms, the adhesiveareas 712 and 722 may have a space between them having a width 781 offrom 70 mm to 120 mm, about 80 mm to 110 mm, or about 97.5 mm to about102 mm, specifically including any values within these ranges and anyranges created thereby.

Without such spacing of the adhesive areas 712 and 722, the leg elasticsof the panty could be rendered basically useless as the adhesiveeffectively locks the elastics in place. This can cause discomfort.Additionally, because the leg elastics are designed to flex and movewith the wearer, during use, the leg elastics may prematurely cause theadhesive areas 712 and 722 to become detached from the panty. Thisdetachment can further lead to premature detachment of the adhesiveareas 711 and 721.

Another variable of import regarding sustained attachment to the pantyis with regard to a grasping area versus coverage areas of the wings. Ingeneral, a ratio of coverage areas should be about equal. If the ratioof areas becomes unbalanced, then premature detachment of the pad fromthe panty can occur.

Referring to FIG. 9A, the first guide line 789 associated with adhesivearea 711 is helpful in determining a grasping area 985 versus thecoverage areas 981A and 981B. The first guide line 789 can create aboundary for the grasping area 985, a first coverage area 981A, and asecond coverage areas 981B on the wing 760. As shown, the first coveragearea 981A is bounded by the first trailing edge 765, the first guideline 789, the bisecting line 787, and the fold line 780. The secondcoverage area 981B is bounded by a first leading edge 761, a firstproximal edge 762, the bisecting line 787 and the fold line 780. In someforms, the first coverage area 981A and the second coverage area 981Bare about the same size.

Referring to FIG. 9B, the second guideline 799 is helpful in determininga grasping area 995 and coverage areas 991A and 991B for the wing 770.The second guide line 799 can create a boundary for the grasping area995, the first coverage area 991A and the second coverage area 991B onthe wing 770. As shown, the first coverage area 991A is bounded by thesecond leading edge 771, the second guide line 799, the bisecting line797, and fold line 790. Similarly, the second coverage area 991B isbounded by a second trailing edge 775, a second proximal edge 774, thebisecting line 797, and fold line 790. In some forms, the first coveragearea 991A and the second coverage area 991B are about the same size.

It is worth noting that the first guide line 789 and the second guideline 799, in some forms, can form a portion of a boundary for the secondcoverage areas 981B and 991B. Depending on the placement of the adhesiveareas 711 and 721, the first guide line 789 and/or second guide line 799may be disposed inboard to a larger extent than shown in FIGS. 9A and9B, respectively. In such forms, the grasping areas 985 and 995 wouldform the outermost portions of the wings 760 and 770.

As noted previously, the surface area of the first coverage area and thesecond coverage area should be similar. In some forms, the ratio betweenthe first coverage area and the second coverage area can be about 1 to1.48, about 1 to 0.52, or about 1 to 1, specifically reciting all valueswithin these ranges and any ranges created thereby. Where the surfaceareas of the first coverage area and the second coverage area are toodisparate, premature detachment can occur. In FIG. 9C, a moment 999 isshown being applied to the feminine pad. If the ratio of surface area ofthe first coverage area 981A to the second coverage area 981B for wing760 is not within the range described previously, the moment 999 cancause premature detachment of the wing 760—particularly in the secondcoverage area 981B. This problem may be exacerbated where the ratio ofsurface area of the first coverage area 991A and the second coveragearea 991B of wing 770 are also outside of the ranges describedpreviously.

Feminine Pad Construction

Referring to FIG. 10, the feminine pad 110 is shown. As notedpreviously, the feminine pad 10 comprises the chassis 20 and wingsextending outboard of the chassis 20. The chassis 20 comprises a liquidpermeable topsheet 1014, a liquid impermeable, or substantially liquidimpermeable, backsheet 1016, and an absorbent core 1018 positionedintermediate the topsheet 1014 and the backsheet 1016. The wings 60 and70 may be joined to the topsheet 1014, the backsheet 1016, and/or theabsorbent core 1018. The sanitary napkin 1810 may also be provided withadditional features commonly found in sanitary napkins as is known inthe art. In some forms of the present invention, the wings may beprovided with zones of extensibility as described in U.S. Pat. No.5,972,806.

Any suitable absorbent core known in the art may be utilized. Theabsorbent core 1018 may be any absorbent member which is generallycompressible, conformable, non-irritating to the wearer's skin, andcapable of absorbing and retaining liquids such as urine, menses, and/orother body exudates. The absorbent core 1018 may be manufactured from awide variety of liquid-absorbent materials commonly used in disposableabsorbent articles such as comminuted wood pulp which is generallyreferred to as airfelt. The absorbent core 1018 may comprisesuperabsorbent polymers (SAP) and less than 15%, less than 10%, lessthan 5%, less than 3%, or less than 1% of airfelt, or be completely freeof airfelt. Examples of other suitable absorbent materials comprisecreped cellulose wadding, meltblown polymers including coform,chemically stiffened, modified or cross-linked cellulosic fibers, tissueincluding tissue wraps and tissue laminates, absorbent foams, absorbentsponges, superabsorbent polymers, absorbent gelling materials, or anyequivalent material or combinations of materials.

The configuration and construction of the absorbent core 1018 may vary(e.g., the absorbent core may have varying caliper zones, a hydrophilicgradient, a superabsorbent gradient, or lower average density and loweraverage basis weight acquisition zones; or may comprise one or morelayers or structures). In some forms, the absorbent core 1018 maycomprise one or more channels, such as two, three, four, five, or sixchannels.

The absorbent core 1018 of the present disclosure may comprise one ormore adhesives, for example, to help immobilize the SAP or otherabsorbent materials within a core wrap and/or to ensure integrity of thecore wrap, in particular when the core wrap is made of two or moresubstrates. The core wrap may extend to a larger area than required forcontaining the absorbent material(s) within.

Absorbent cores comprising relatively high amounts of SAP with variouscore designs are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,599,335 to Goldman et al.,EP 1,447,066 to Busam et al., WO 95/11652 to Tanzer et al., U.S. Pat.Publ. No. 2008/0312622A1 to Hundorf et al., and WO 2012/052172 to VanMalderen.

Other forms and more details regarding channels and pockets that arefree of, or substantially free of absorbent materials, such as SAP,within absorbent cores are discussed in greater detail in U.S. PatentApplication Publication Nos. 2014/0163500, 2014/0163506, and2014/0163511, all published on Jun. 12, 2014.

Other suitable materials for use in absorbent cores comprise open celledfoams or pieces thereof. The use of foams in absorbent cores isdescribed in additional detail in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,410,820; 6,107,356;6,204,298; 6,207,724; 6,444,716; 8,211,078, and 8,702,668.

In some forms, the absorbent core structure may comprise a heterogeneousmass layer or may utilize methods or parameters such as those describedin U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/715,984, filed May 19, 2015; U.S.patent application Ser. No. 14/750,399, Jun. 25, 2015; U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 14/751,969 filed Jun. 26, 2015; U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 15/078,132 filed Mar. 23, 2016; U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 14/750,596 filed Jun. 25, 2015; U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 15/084,902 filed Mar. 30, 2016; U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 15/343,989 filed Nov. 4, 2016; U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 15/344,273 filed Nov. 4, 2016; U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 15/344,294 filed Nov. 4, 2016; U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 14/704,110 filed May 5, 2015; U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 15/194,894 filed Jun. 28, 2016; U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 15/344,050 filed Nov. 4, 2016; U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 15/344,117 filed Nov. 4, 2016; U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 15/344,177 filed Nov. 4, 2016; U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 15/344,198 filed Nov. 4, 2016; U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 15/344,221 filed Nov. 4, 2016; U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 15/344,239 filed Nov. 4, 2016; U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 15/344,255 filed Nov. 4, 2016; U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 15/464,733 filed Nov. 4, 2016; U.S. ProvisionalPatent Application No. 62/437,208 filed Dec. 21, 2016; U.S. ProvisionalPatent Application No. 62/437,225 filed Dec. 21, 2016; U.S. ProvisionalPatent Application No. 62/437,241 filed Dec. 21, 2016; or U.S.Provisional Patent Application No. 62/437,259 filed Dec. 21, 2016. Theheterogeneous mass layer has a depth, a width, and a height.

In some forms, a combination of absorbent core materials may beutilized. For example, forms are contemplated where a first layer of anabsorbent core comprises a foam material or pieces thereof as describedpreviously and a second layer of an absorbent core comprises an airlaidmaterial. Such combinations are described in U.S. Patent Publication No.2014/0336606 and U.S. Pat. No. 9,649,228.

Additional absorbent core structures are contemplated as shown in FIGS.14 through 15B. FIG. 14 is a plan view showing the absorbent article 10,excluding a topsheet, such that an absorbent core 1418 constructed inaccordance with the present disclosure may be more easily visualized. Asshown, the absorbent core 1418 may comprise a first end 1420, a secondend 1422 opposite the first end 1420, and an intermediate portion 1430disposed between the first end 1420 and the second end 1422. The secondend 1422 may be associated with that portion of the absorbent articlethat is positioned adjacent the gluteal groove during use. To facilitateflexibility in that area, a notch 1430 may be provided in the second end1422 between a first leg 1422A and a second leg 1422B. Because of thenotch 1430, the first leg 1422A and the second leg 1422B can moveindependently of one another. This can allow for increased flexibilityin the second end 1422.

Additional forms are contemplated, where the intermediate portion 1430comprises a width which is less than a width of the first end 1420. Insuch forms, the intermediate portion 1430 may similarly comprise a widthwhich is less than that of the second end 1422. Additional forms arecontemplated where a width of the first end 1420 and/or a width of theintermediate portion 1430 are less than a width of the second end 1422.Conversely, forms are contemplated where a width of the second end 1422and/or the intermediate portion 1430 are less than a width of the firstportion 1420. The variability of the widths of the absorbent core 1418can build in appropriate flexibility within the absorbent article. Forexample, for wearer's with a higher body mass index, e.g. BMI>35,flexibility may be needed in the intermediate portion 1430 of theabsorbent core 1418 due to the decreased spacing between the thighs ofthe wearer. For such wearer's, the absorbent core 1420 may be configuredsuch that the width of the intermediate portion 1430 is less than thatof the first end 1420 and/or the second end 1430. The identification ofthe first end 1420, second end 1422, and intermediate portion 1430 isdescribed hereafter. Absorbent cores which comprise a notch 1430 aredescribed in additional detail in U.S. Pat. No. 8,877,999.

Referring now to FIGS. 15A and 15B, an exploded cross-sectional view ofan absorbent article 1500 constructed in accordance with the presentdisclosure is shown. The cross-section shown in FIG. 15A is takenthrough an opening 1540 (shown in FIG. 15B). The absorbent article 1500may comprise the backsheet 1016 and topsheet 1014 described herein.Disposed between the topsheet 1014 and backsheet 1016 may be theabsorbent core 1418, a secondary topsheet 1416, and a supplementalabsorbent member 1415. The secondary topsheet 1416 is discussed inadditional detail hereafter. The supplemental absorbent member 1415 isshown in additional detail in FIG. 15B.

As shown, the supplemental absorbent member 1415 may comprise one ormore openings 1540, and may be positioned between the secondary topsheet1416 and the absorbent core 1418. Forms are contemplated where thesupplemental absorbent member 1415 may be positioned between thetopsheet 1014 and the secondary topsheet 1416. Regardless of itslocation, the supplemental absorbent member 1415 may be made of amaterial that is capable of rapidly guiding, transferring and absorbing,in a z-direction, bodily fluid that is delivered to the topsheet 1014adjacent the supplemental absorbent member 1415.

The supplemental absorbent member 1415 may generally have any shapeand/or size desired. Some examples include a shape which resembles aracetrack or a rectangle with semi-circular ends and has a length and/orwidth less than the overall length and/or width of the backsheet 1016.However, it is to be understood that the first sub-topsheet layer 116can have a simple rectangular, square, circular, or triangular shape, ora more complex shape having multiple protrusions.

The supplemental absorbent member 1415 can generally have length, width,and thickness dimensions such that it can form a well or cup-likestructure that can be used to funnel and hold fluid in a desiredlocation of the absorbent article away from a body-facing surface of theabsorbent article. Further, the dimensions of the supplemental absorbentmember 1415 can be chosen such that it is wide enough to capture fluidyet still remain comfortable against the wearer's body. Generally, thelength of the supplemental absorbent member 1415 in the longitudinaldirection can be from about 20 mm to about 200 mm, from about 40 mm toabout 175 mm, or from about 60 mm to about 150 mm, specificallyincluding all values within these ranges and any ranges created thereby.Meanwhile, the width of the supplemental absorbent member 1415 in thetransverse direction can be from about 10 mm to about 100 mm, from about15 mm to about 80 mm, or from about 20 mm to about 60 mm, specificallyincluding all values within these ranges and any ranges created thereby.Additionally, the supplemental absorbent member 1415 can have athickness ranging from about 100 micrometers (μm) to about 8 mm, fromabout 500 μm to about 5 mm, or from about 300 μm to about 3 mm,specifically including all values within these ranges and any rangescreated thereby.

The supplemental absorbent member 1415 can comprise a variety ofmaterials which can provide varying levels of absorbency. For example,the supplemental absorbent member 1415 can be an additional topsheetlayer, a surge layer, a fluid intake layer, or an absorbent core layer.Any materials known in the art can be used in the supplemental absorbentmember 1415, such as the topsheet layer materials discussed herein, andthe absorbent core and secondary topsheet materials discussed herein.Further, the supplemental absorbent member 1415 can be synthetic,cellulosic, or a combination of synthetic and cellulosic materials. Inone particular example, multifunctional airlaid material such as airlaidcellulosic tissues may be suitable for use in the supplemental absorbentmember 1415. The airlaid cellulosic tissue may have a basis weightranging from about 10 gsm to about 300 gsm, or between about 40 gsm toabout 150 gsm, specifically including all values within these ranges andany ranges created thereby. The airlaid tissue may be formed fromhardwood and/or softwood fibers. The airlaid tissue has a fine porestructure and can provide an excellent wicking capacity, especially formenses.

The opening 1540 may be of any suitable shape. Some examples includeoval, circular, rectangular, square, triangular, or the like. Thesupplement absorbent member 1415 can serve to funnel liquid insults tothe absorbent core from the topsheet of the absorbent article. Theopening 1540 can also form a cup or well like structure for holdingfluid and preventing its leakage away from a central region of theabsorbent article and towards the edges.

Generally, the opening 1540 can have a length in a longitudinaldirection that is from about 15 mm to about 150 mm, from about 20 mm to100 mm, or from about 30 mm to about 75 mm, specifically reciting allvalues within these ranges and any ranges created thereby. The opening1540 can have a width in the transverse direction that is from about 10mm to about 80 mm, from about 15 mm to about 60 mm, or from about 20 mmto about 40 mm, specifically reciting all values within these ranges andany ranges created thereby. The size of the opening 1540 can allow thesupplemental absorbent member 1415 to sufficiently bend to conform tothe wearer's body, which can prevent leakage of bodily fluids due tochannels that could be created in the absorbent article upon theintroduction of compressive forces. It is also desirable that theopening 1540 be large enough for a consumer to easily view and place itdirectly under a vaginal opening so that it is located underneath theportion of the body-facing surface of the absorbent article havingprimary contact with bodily fluids.

In this regard, the proper placement of the absorbent article can befurther facilitated where the supplemental absorbent member 1415comprises a visual contrast, e.g. a delta E of greater than 2.0 on theCIELab color space, when compared to its surround material of theabsorbent article. CIElab color space is well known in the art as aremeasurements for ascertaining visual contrast between two surfaces. Thevisual contrast may be provided in a variety of ways. For example, thesupplemental absorbent member 1415 may be dyed, printed, or otherwisecolored such that it is distinctly in contrast with other layers of theabsorbent article or at least distinctly in contrast with portions ofthe absorbent article which are directly adjacent to the supplementabsorbent member 1415. Supplemental absorbent members, topsheets, andother absorbent article layer arrangements are discussed in additionaldetail in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015/0313766 and U.S.Pat. No. 9,237,975.

The feminine pad 1010 may comprise additional layers between thetopsheet 1014 and the absorbent core 1018. For example, the feminine pad1010 may comprise a secondary topsheet and/or an acquisition layerpositioned between the topsheet 1014 and the absorbent core 1018. Onesuitable example of a secondary topsheet is with regard to a spunlacenonwoven. Suitable spunlace nonwovens are discussed in additional detailin U.S. Patent Publication No. 2015/0351976. In some forms, thesecondary topsheet may comprise superabsorbent similar to thesuperabsorbent in the absorbent core or different than the absorbentcore.

The backsheet can comprise a liquid impervious film. The backsheet canbe impervious to liquids (e.g., body fluids) and can be typicallymanufactured from a thin plastic film. However, typically the backsheetcan permit vapours to escape from the disposable article. In anembodiment, a microporous polyethylene film can be used for thebacksheet. A suitable microporous polyethylene film is manufactured byMitsui Toatsu Chemicals, Inc., Nagoya, Japan and marketed in the tradeas PG-P.

One suitable material for the backsheet can be a liquid imperviousthermoplastic film having a thickness of from about 0.012 mm (0.50 mil)to about 0.051 mm (2.0 mils), for example including polyethylene orpolypropylene. Typically, the backsheet can have a basis weight of fromabout 5 g/m² to about 35 g/m². However, it should be noted that otherflexible liquid impervious materials may be used as the backsheet.Herein, “flexible” refers to materials which are compliant and whichwill readily conform to the general shape and contours of the wearer'sbody.

The backsheet can be typically positioned adjacent an outer-facingsurface of the absorbent core and can be joined thereto by any suitableattachment device known in the art. For example, the backsheet may besecured to the absorbent core by a uniform continuous layer of adhesive,a patterned layer of adhesive, or an array of separate lines, spirals,or spots of adhesive. Illustrative, but non-limiting adhesives, includeadhesives manufactured by H. B. Fuller Company of St. Paul, Minn.,U.S.A., and marketed as HL-1358J. An example of a suitable attachmentdevice including an open pattern network of filaments of adhesive isdisclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,573,986 entitled “DisposableWaste-Containment Garment”, which issued to Minetola et al. on Mar. 4,1986. Another suitable attachment device including several lines ofadhesive filaments swirled into a spiral pattern is illustrated by theapparatus and methods shown in U.S. Pat. No. 3,911,173 issued toSprague, Jr. on Oct. 7, 1975; U.S. Pat. No. 4,785,996 issued to Ziecker,et al. on Nov. 22, 1978; and U.S. Pat. No. 4,842,666 issued to Wereniczon Jun. 27, 1989. Alternatively, the attachment device may include heatbonds, thermal fusion bonds, pressure bonds, ultrasonic bonds, dynamicmechanical bonds, or any other suitable attachment device orcombinations of these attachment devices. The backsheet may beadditionally secured to the topsheet by any of the above-citedattachment devices/methods.

The topsheet 1014 is positioned adjacent a body-facing surface of thefeminine pad 1010. The topsheet 1014 may be joined to the backsheet 1016by attachment methods (not shown) such as those well known in the art.The topsheet 1014 and the backsheet 1016 may be joined directly to eachother in the feminine pad periphery and may be indirectly joinedtogether by directly joining them to the absorbent core 1018 by anysuitable attachment method.

The topsheet 1014 may be compliant, soft feeling, and non-irritating tothe wearer's skin. Further, the topsheet 1014 may be liquid perviouspermitting liquids (e.g., urine, menses) to readily penetrate throughits thickness. Some suitable examples of topsheet materials includefilms, nonwovens, laminate structures including film/nonwoven layers,film/film layers, and nonwoven/nonwoven layers. Other exemplary topsheetmaterials and designs are disclosed in U.S. Patent ApplicationPublication Nos. 2016/0129661, 2016/0167334, and 2016/0278986.

As noted previously, the feminine pad 1010 may comprise a secondarytopsheet 1022 or an acquisition layer disposed between the topsheet 1014and the absorbent core 1018 as shown in FIG. 11. The secondary topsheet1022 may comprise a first end 1025 and an opposing second end 1027 and apair of longitudinally opposing side edges 1031 and 1032 connecting thefirst end 1025 and the second end 1027. As shown, the secondary topsheet1022 may be asymmetrical about the lateral centreline 90.

The secondary topsheet 1022 may additionally comprise a variable width.For example adjacent the first end 1025, the secondary topsheet may havea first width. The width may decrease toward a flex axis 1190. The flexaxis 1190 may comprise the smallest width of the secondary topsheet 1022and may be disposed on a first side of the lateral centreline 90.

The flex axis 1190 can provide the feminine pad with reduced stiffnessin the area of the pad adjacent the flex axis 1190. Because theabsorbent core and secondary topsheet are typically the thickestmaterials in the feminine pad, they can also be the stiffest. So, thecreation of a flex axis 1190 can provide the feminine pad with theability to conform to the body of the wearer in the area of the flexaxis 1190. And conformance of the feminine pads of the presentdisclosure to a user's body can provide for a more comfortable useexperience for the user.

The wings of the feminine hygiene pads of the present disclosure may beintegrally formed as part of the topsheet. In some forms, the wings maybe integrally formed as part of the backsheet. In some forms, the wingsmay be integrally formed as part of the topsheet and the backsheet. Insome forms, the wings may be integrally formed with additionallayers—described herein—of the feminine hygiene pad. Yet in other forms,the wings may be formed discretely and joined to the chassis.

Examples

Examples of feminine pads constructed in accordance with the presentdisclosure are provided with regard to FIGS. 12 and 13. In FIG. 12, afeminine pad 1200 is shown comprising a first visual signal 1215 and asecond visual signal 1235. In FIG. 13, a feminine pad 1300 is showncomprise a first visual signal 1315 and a second visual signal 1335.Various measurements were taken in accordance with the descriptions inthe specification. The various measurements are provided below in Tables1 and 2. For the sake of clarity, the samples identified as 1200 (1) areassociated with a first wing of the pad 1200 in FIG. 12, and 1200 (2)are associated with the second wing of the pad 1200 in FIG. 12.Similarly, for pad 1300, the measurements are labeled 1300 (1) for thefirst wing of the pad 1300 in FIGS. 13 and 1300 (2) for the second wingof the pad 1300 in FIG. 13.

TABLE 1 Distal Wf Ws Wing Length Zone Area Proximal Zone Area Pad (mm)(mm) (mm) (mm²) (mm²) 1200 (1) 85.6 87.4 115.8 1374.2 1122.6 1200 (2)116.8 1341.9 1025.8 1300 (1) 85.7 87.6 120.8 1361.0 1239.4 1300 (2)122.3 1449.3 1125.5

TABLE 2 Visual Signal Visual Signal Area - Distal Area - Proximal Pad(mm²) (mm²) 1200 (1) 677.4 57.4 1200 (2) 587.7 216.1 1300 (1) 676.2113.0 1300 (2) 677.4 18.3

In order to safeguard the experiential aspect of the pads of the presentdisclosure, packaging of the absorbent pads 10 described herein shouldbe carefully reviewed. In general, absorbent pads are packaged in abi-folded or tri-folded state. However, care should be taken to ensurethat the wings of the pad 10 are not caught in the folds. In suchinstances, a fold line which crosses the wings may increase thedifficulty in application of the pad to underwear due to the foldedwings. For the pads of the present disclosure, a first fold line 1618may be disposed at a distance Lf1 from a first end of the pad 10. Insome forms, the distance Lf1 may be from about 50 mm to about 110 mm, orfrom about 60 to about 100 mm, specifically including all values withinthese ranges and any ranges created thereby. As noted herein, forms arecontemplated where pitch length PL increases across an array of pads.Similar to the increase in pitch length PL, the length Lf1 may increaseacross an array. For example, for a first plurality of pads, a lengthLf1 may be greater than about 50 mm, greater than about 60 mm, greaterthan about 70 mm, less than about 80 mm, specifically including allvalues within these ranges and any ranges created thereby. For a secondplurality of pads, the length Lf1 may be greater than 70 mm, greaterthan 80 mm, greater than 90 mm, greater than 100 mm, or less than 110mm, specifically including all values within these ranges and any rangescreated thereby. Forms are contemplated where a third plurality ofabsorbent articles has a first fold line which has the length Lf1 ofbetween 60 mm and 100 mm or between 70 mm and 90 mm, specificallyincluding all values within these ranges and any ranges created thereby.

A ratio of the length Lf1 to the pitch length PL can be between about0.2 to about 0.4, between about 0.25 to 0.35, or between about 0.28 toabout 0.3, specifically including all values within these ranges and anyranges created thereby. A ratio of lengths Lf1 to Lf2 can be from about0.3 to about 0.5, from about 0.35 to about 0.45, or about 0.4 to 0.44.

Similarly, a second fold line 1620 may be positioned having a length Lf2from the first end which is between about 130 mm to about 250 mm,between 140 mm to about 240 mm, between 150 mm to about 230 mm,specifically including all values within these ranges and any rangescreated thereby. Where an array of pads is provided, the length Lf2 canvary as described herein regarding the length Lf1. For example, for afirst plurality of pads, the length Lf2 can be between about 130 mm toabout 170 mm, from about 140 mm to about 160 mm, or from between 150 mmto about 156 mm, specifically including all values within these rangesand any ranges created thereby. For a second plurality of pads withinthe array, the length Lf2 may be between 170 mm to about 200 mm, betweenabout 180 mm to 190 mm, specifically including all values within theseranges and any ranges created thereby. For a third plurality ofarticles, the length Lf2 may be between 180 mm and 210 mm, between 190mm and 205 mm, or between 195 mm and 201 mm, specifically including allvalues within these ranges and any ranges created thereby. For a fourthplurality of pads, the length Lf2 may be between about 200 mm and 240mm, between about 210 mm and 230 mm, or between about 220 mm and 225 mm,specifically including all values within these ranges and any rangescreated thereby.

Test Methods Visual Signal Area Measurement Method

The intent of the Visual Signal Area measurement is to determine theamount of printed color and/or emboss area within a respective zone ofan absorbent article wing. The printed color area and emboss areameasurements are obtained from article images acquired using a flatbedscanner. The scanner is capable of scanning in reflectance mode at aresolution of 500 dpi and 24 bit color (a suitable scanner is an EpsonPerfection V750 Pro from Epson America Inc., Long Beach Calif. orequivalent). The scanner is interfaced with a computer running an imageanalysis program (a suitable program is ImageJ v. 1.50 or equivalent,National Institute of Health, USA). The article images are distancecalibrated against an acquired image of a ruler certified by NIST. Theresulting image is then analyzed using the image analysis program toidentify the boundaries of the printed color and emboss regions andcalculate the Visual Signal Area.

The ruler is placed on the center of the scanner bed, oriented parallelto the sides of the scanner glass, and the scanner lid is closed. Acalibration image of the ruler is acquired in reflectance mode at aresolution of 500 dpi (approximately 19.7 pixels per mm) and 24 bitcolor. The calibration image is saved as an uncompressed TIFF formatfile. The scanner lid is opened and the ruler removed. After obtainingthe calibration image, all articles are scanned under the sameconditions and measured based on the same calibration file. Next, thearticle is placed onto the center of the scanner bed, lying flat, withthe color printed surface of the article facing the scanner's glasssurface. The article is covered with a white background (in this testmethod white is defined as having L*>94, −2<a*<2, and −2<b*<2) and thescanner lid is closed. A scanned image of the article is acquired andsaved as an uncompressed TIFF format file. If the size of the articleexceeds the available scanning area, multiple scans are obtainedcovering the entire article and stitched together into a single imagefor analysis. A total of five substantially similar replicate articlesare scanned in like fashion.

The calibration image file is opened in the image analysis program and alinear distance calibration is performed using the imaged ruler. Thisdistance calibration scale is applied to all subsequent article imagesprior to analysis. An article image is opened in the image analysisprogram and the distance scale is set. Using the image analysis program,the boundaries of the respective zones of the article wing, within whichthe printed color area is to be measured, is identified and defined asdescribed within the specification. Using the image analysis program,the boundaries of any printed color regions within the respective zonesare identified and defined. Identification of color region boundaries isperformed with the intent of defining them as they would be discerned bya human viewer under standard lighting conditions with the unaided eyeif being viewed face on in a flat configuration at approximately anarm's length distance. In like fashion, the boundaries of any embossregions within the respective zones are identified and defined. The areaof each of the individual printed color and emboss regions arecalculated within the respective zones to the nearest 0.1 mm². Any areacontaining both printed color and emboss regions is only calculatedonce. The total area of printed color and emboss regions is calculatedby summing up the areas of the individual printed color and embossregions. This value is recorded as the Visual Signal Area to the nearest0.1 mm². In like fashion, the remaining four specimen images areanalyzed. The average Visual Signal Area is calculated and reported tothe nearest 0.1 mm² for the five replicates.

Intermediate Portion Test Method

The Intermediate Portion Test Method is used to determine theintermediate portion length index value.

A two-dimensional shape, defined by the projection of a planar coreperpendicular to both its longitudinal and transverse axes, is capturedand is hereafter referred to as the core projection. The core projectionretains the same longitudinal and transverse axes of the core itself.The centroid of the core projection is calculated, and the position ofthe centroid along the longitudinal axis of the core projection isdefined as the core centroid point. A line extending through the corecentroid point and parallel to the transverse axis is used to partitionthe core projection into two sub-shapes, a first core projection and asecond core projection. The centroids of the first core projection andsecond core projection are calculated and defined as the first centroidand second centroid, respectively. The position of the first centroidalong the longitudinal axis of the core projection is defined as thefirst core centroid point. The position of the second centroid along thelongitudinal axis of the core projection is defined as the second corecentroid point.

Lines extending through the first and second centroid points parallel tothe transverse centerline 90 of the core projection delineate theboundaries between the first end, second end, and intermediate portion.The length of the intermediate portion along the longitudinal axis iscalculated and reported to the nearest 0.1 mm.

The intermediate portion length index value is calculated by dividingthe length of the intermediate portion by the total length of the coreprojection along the longitudinal axis and is a dimensionless ratioreported to the nearest 0.01.

All measures are performed on five substantially similar absorbent coresand reported as the arithmetic mean of the five values.

Linear Distances

Linear distances may be measured by any appropriate instrument that iscalibrated and capable of a measurement to the nearest 0.1 mm. Areameasurements are made using the projected area of the article, as viewedorthogonally to the plane of the article length and width, in squaremillimeters to the nearest 0.1 mm².

The dimensions and values disclosed herein are not to be understood asbeing strictly limited to the exact numerical values recited. Instead,unless otherwise specified, each such dimension is intended to mean boththe recited value and a functionally equivalent range surrounding thatvalue. For example, a dimension disclosed as “40 mm” is intended to mean“about 40 mm.”

Every document cited herein, including any cross referenced or relatedpatent or application and any patent application or patent to which thisapplication claims priority or benefit thereof, is hereby incorporatedherein by reference in its entirety unless expressly excluded orotherwise limited. The citation of any document is not an admission thatit is prior art with respect to any invention disclosed or claimedherein or that it alone, or in any combination with any other referenceor references, teaches, suggests or discloses any such invention.Further, to the extent that any meaning or definition of a term in thisdocument conflicts with any meaning or definition of the same term in adocument incorporated by reference, the meaning or definition assignedto that term in this document shall govern.

While particular forms of the present invention have been illustratedand described, it would be obvious to those skilled in the art thatvarious other changes and modifications can be made without departingfrom the spirit and scope of the invention. It is therefore intended tocover in the appended claims all such changes and modifications that arewithin the scope of this invention.

What is claimed:
 1. A feminine hygiene article having a chassis comprising a topsheet, a backsheet, and an absorbent core disposed between the topsheet and the backsheet, a longitudinal centerline and a lateral centerline perpendicular to the longitudinal centerline, a first end, an opposing second end, and an intermediate region connecting the first end and the second end, the first end having a width Wf and the second end having a width Ws; the feminine hygiene article further comprising: a first wing extending laterally outboard of the chassis having a first leading edge extending outboard of the chassis, a first trailing edge extending outboard of the chassis and one or more edges connecting the first leading edge and the first trailing edge, wherein the first wing has a first length and a first bisecting line bisecting the first length, the first bisecting line forming, at least a portion, of a boundary between a first distal zone and a first proximal zone, wherein the first wing is asymmetric about the first bisecting line, wherein the first wing further comprises a first surface and an opposing second surface, a first adhesive area and a second adhesive area disposed on the second surface, wherein the first adhesive area is disposed asymmetrically with respect to the first bisecting line; a second wing extending laterally outboard of the chassis having a second leading edge extending outboard of the chassis, a second trailing edge extending outboard of the chassis and one or more edges connecting the second leading edge and the second trailing edge, wherein the second wing has a second length and a second bisecting line bisecting the second length, wherein the second wing is asymmetric about the second bisecting line, wherein the second wing further comprises a first surface and an opposing second surface, a third adhesive area and a fourth adhesive area disposed on the second surface, wherein the third adhesive area is disposed asymmetrically with respect to the second bisecting line; a first visual signal disposed on the first wing, wherein the first visual signal comprises a first visual signal area, and wherein the first visual signal area is disposed asymmetrically with respect to the first bisecting line as determined by the Visual Signal Area Measurement Method disclosed herein; and a second visual signal disposed on the second wing, wherein the second visual signal comprises a second visual signal area, and wherein the second visual signal area is disposed asymmetrically with respect to the second bisecting line as determined by the Visual Signal Area Measurement Method disclosed herein.
 2. The feminine hygiene article of claim 1, wherein a ratio of the first end width Wf to the second end width Ws is from about 0.47 to about 1.3.
 3. The feminine hygiene article of claim 1, wherein the first wing comprises a first distal zone and a first proximal zone, and wherein a larger portion of the first visual signal area is disposed in the first distal zone than in the first proximal zone in accordance with the Visual Signal Area Measurement Method method disclosed herein and wherein the second wing comprises a second distal zone and a second proximal zone, and wherein a larger portion of the second visual signal area is disposed in the second distal zone than in the second proximal zone in accordance with the Visual Signal Area Measurement Method disclosed herein.
 4. The feminine hygiene article of claim 3, wherein the first distal zone is more proximal to the second end than the first proximal zone and wherein the second distal zone is more proximal to the first end than the second proximal zone.
 5. The feminine hygiene article of claim 4, wherein the first distal zone is more proximal to the second end than the second distal zone.
 6. The feminine hygiene article of claim 5, wherein the first distal zone and the second distal zone are longitudinally offset from one another.
 7. The feminine hygiene article of claim 3, wherein the first distal zone is disposed on a second side of the lateral centerline of the feminine hygiene article, and the second distal zone is disposed on a first side of the lateral centerline.
 8. The feminine hygiene article of claim 3, wherein a first distal edge connects the first leading edge and the first trailing edge and wherein a second distal edge connects the second leading edge and the second trailing edge.
 9. The feminine hygiene article of claim 3, wherein a first proximal edge extends from the first leading edge toward the first trailing edge, wherein a first distal edge extends from the first trailing edge towards the first leading edge, and wherein a first transition edge connects the first proximal edge and the first distal edge.
 10. The feminine hygiene article of claim 9, wherein a second proximal edge extends from the second trailing edge towards the second leading edge, wherein a second distal edge extends from the second leading edge toward the second trailing edge, and wherein a second transition edge connects the second proximal edge and the second distal edge.
 11. The feminine hygiene article of claim 1, wherein the first end comprises longitudinal side edges (25A, 25B), and wherein the longitudinal side edges are inclined with respect to the longitudinal centerline such that the first end width Wf decreases to about 53 percent of Wf.
 12. The feminine hygiene article of claim 11, wherein the second end comprises longitudinal side edges (27A, 27B), and wherein the longitudinal side edges are inclined with respect to the longitudinal centerline such that the second end width Ws decreases to about 65 percent of Ws.
 13. The feminine hygiene article of claim 1, wherein the first bisecting line and the second bisecting line are disposed on a first side of the lateral centerline more proximal to the first end.
 14. The feminine hygiene article of claim 1, wherein the first bisecting line and the second bisecting line are disposed on a second side of the lateral centerline more proximal to the second end.
 15. The feminine hygiene article of claim 1, wherein the first bisecting line and the second bisecting line are co-linearly disposed with the lateral centerline.
 16. The feminine hygiene article of claim 1, wherein the first wing further comprises a grasping area (985), a first coverage area, and a second coverage area, wherein the first coverage area and the second coverage area have a ratio of about 1 to 1.48.
 17. The feminine hygiene article of claim 16, wherein the second wing further comprises a grasping area, a first coverage area, and a second coverage area, wherein the first coverage area and the second coverage area have a ratio of 1 to 1.48.
 18. The feminine hygiene article of claim 3, wherein the first distal zone has a distal zone adhesive length and wherein the first adhesive area has an adhesive area length, and wherein a ratio of the distal zone adhesive length to the adhesive area length is from about 1.15 to about 4.6.
 19. The feminine hygiene article of claim 1, wherein a ratio of the first end width Wf to the second end width Ws is from about 0.75 to about 1.1.
 20. The feminine hygiene article of claim 1, wherein the first wing further comprises a grasping area, a first coverage area, and a second coverage area, wherein the first coverage area and the second coverage area have a ratio of about 1 to 0.52. 